The Spirit of the Wild West
The West wasn’t won by luck—it was carved by determination and hard work.
As the frontier era drew to a close between 1890 and 1912, the Intermountain West witnessed significant social and economic transformations. Among the key players in this evolution were the Latter-day Saints (Mormons), whose communal efforts and economic strategies helped shape the developing landscape of the region. This article delves into their foundational role within this timeframe, emphasizing economic development and community establishment.
Historical Context: The End of the Frontier
The closing of the American frontier in 1890 marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as declared by the U.S. Census Bureau. This period of transformation was characterized by a shift from pastoral and agrarian lifestyles to more urban and industrial societies. Intermountain West became an essential area for settlement and economic opportunity as the nation expanded westward.
The Mormon Migration and Settlement Patterns
In the mid-to-late 19th century, after the persecution faced in the Eastern United States, Mormons migrated to what is now Utah under the leadership of Brigham Young. This migration was not merely a quest for religious freedom but also a strategic move to establish self-sufficient communities in the arid, sprawling landscape of the West. By 1890, the Mormon population in Utah had already formed a well-established community infrastructure.
Community building was intrinsic to the Mormon identity, leading to the establishment of towns such as Salt Lake City, Provo, and Logan. e towns became models of meticulously planned settlements, featuring agricultural units, irrigation systems, and cultivated farmlands vital for sustenance and economic viability.
Economic Development Initiatives
During the period from 1890 to 1912, the Mormons played a significant role in economic initiatives focused on agriculture and industry. Their unique approach combined spiritual beliefs with practical economic measures, which led to robust community development.
Agricultural Innovations
The Intermountain Wests water scarcity presented a major challenge for agriculture. The Mormons excelled in irrigation practices, enabling them to transform the arid environment into productive farmland. early adoption of techniques like the construction of irrigation ditches helped establish vast farms that supported food production, fostering both sustenance and trade.
The great deserts can be made to bloom. – Brigham Young.
This principle manifested in the expansive agricultural output of Utah by the early 1900s, with statistics showing that the territory produced substantial quantities of grains, fruits, and vegetables, feeding both local populations and external markets.
Industry and Commerce
As agricultural communities flourished, Mormons recognized the need for industrial growth to support their economic ambitions. The establishment of industries, such as the Deseret Manufacturing Company in 1869, marked the beginning of a significant trend towards economic diversification. This company, along with others, produced goods ranging from textiles to machinery. By 1900, Mormon leaders emphasized the importance of self-reliance through initiatives that encouraged local production over dependence on imports.
The result was a burgeoning economy that provided jobs, promoted local entrepreneurship, and encouraged the establishment of cooperatives, which pooled resources to streamline production and distribution processes.
Socio-Economic Challenges and Unity
While the Mormons achieved considerable economic success, they faced myriad challenges. External competition and the diminishing frontier intensified pressures on local economies. Nonetheless, the sense of community among the Latter-day Saints served as a catalyst for resilience. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints organized various councils to address socio-economic issues, including the creation of financial cooperatives and communal economic systems that benefitted members.
Timeline of Key Events (1890-1912)
- 1890: The U.S. Census declares the closing of the frontier.
- 1896: Utah achieves statehood, bolstered by a strong Mormon population.
- 1900: Establishment of the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station, promoting agricultural advancements.
- 1907: Founding of the Utah Cooperative Company, enhancing local commerce.
- 1910: Growth of manufacturing sectors in Mormon communities, contributing to economic diversity.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The period from 1890 to 1912 was instrumental for the Mormons in the Intermountain West. Their unparalleled commitment to community building and economic ingenuity laid an essential foundation that would support the regions development long after the frontier era ended. interdependence of agriculture, industry, and a strong social fabric exemplifies the Mormon contribution to the westward expansion of the United States.
Actionable Takeaways
- Understanding the significance of community and cooperation can inspire contemporary economic development strategies.
- Learning from historical agricultural practices can inform current sustainability efforts in water-scarce regions.
- Recognizing the value of local production and support systems can strengthen contemporary economic resilience.
